Esa sicklines & form 50

Prudent

I am completely new to ESA, so please bear with me.

I am about to be dismissed by my work due to severe, permanent ill health. I will be applying for my occupational pension (which is not a great amount), but understand it is a long process.

My statutory sick came to an end mid March. After getting advice on here I asked my work place for my ssp1 form at the start of March, although despite persistent phone calls I did not actually get it until the start of April. I phoned the DWP last Tuesday and asked to apply for contributions based ESA. The lady was helpful on the phone. She said she would send an SAE for the fit note and ssp1 which would arrive by Saturday, but it has not arrived yet. Should I call them back if doesn't arrive by tomorrow?

She also mentioned a Form 50 would be sent out and made reference to evidence. How long will it be before I get this form? I am also wondering what kind of evidence they want. I have been through a long process with my workplace and have detailed reports from five medical professionals from my GP to consultants. I also have the occupational health reports. All have been written since November and clearly state I am too ill to continue working as well as detailing my illness. Is this enough? Is it advisable to get help filling in the form and if so, who do I ask?

Sorry for the long post.

TELLIT01

Most post from DWP is sent 2nd class so can take up to a week to arrive.
Just to clarify, did you complete the claim over the phone, and they are just sending an envelope for the 'fit note' and SSP1, or are you going to be completing a clerical claim form?
The ESA50 is generally sent out about 4 weeks after the claim is made. Any reports you have had from your GP or consultants should be sent with the ESA50 when you return it. If you need help completing the form your best route is probably Citizens Advice, but have a look at the form yourself first. They are long winded and do need to be completed carefully and accurately.

Prudent

Thank you I completed my claim over the phone. I was told I would be sent an SAE to return the fit notes and SSP1.

I will try and find some more information on line to start preparing for the Form 50 if it is complex. Is there a sample on line that I could download and fill in with the help of CAB?

TELLIT01

If you search for ESA50 you will find a form which can be completed on-line and a host of other links. Hopefully that will give you a starting point. Just don't be panicked by the forms.

Prudent

Thank you. Even just to get an idea will be a starting point.

NeilCr

https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/sick-or-disabled-people-and-carers/employment-and-support-allowance/help-with-your-esa-claim/fill-in-form/

This might give you some ideas. CitA have recently updated their public website to give information on ESA 50s and how to complete them

If you are unsure and/or nervous I think it would be a good idea for you to go to CAB for help

Good luck

Prudent

Thank you Neilcr

The ESA 50 arrived today, but I still do not have the envelope to return the fit note and SSP1. I have read through the form and took your advice to phone CAB. I have got an appointment with CAB in two weeks time (the first available). I will photocopy the form and use the time in between to do some research and fill in a draft copy. My main concern is that my condition fluctuates considerably. At times my partner needs to care for me throughout both day and night and takes over all household tasks. At other times I can look after myself and do household tasks. The acute phases seem to come in blocks and last somewhere between four and six weeks. My return to work triggers relapses as any additional demands beyond day to day living are too much. In the past two years I have only actually been in work for a total of 11 weeks. Can I put that information on the form (I can verify it)?

NeilCr

No probs.

I'd be inclined to wait for your CAB appointment and discuss it then. In my experience of filling these type of forms in a dialogue produces the best results!